Mosul
Hamam Al-Alil spa town reopens, drawing tourists and locals alike
MOSUL – The spa town of Hamam Al-Alil, located south of Mosul, has regained its popularity as a destination for therapeutic tourism, thanks to its renowned mineral waters. The Nineveh Municipality restored the bath project after years of neglect following 2003, reopening it to visitors two years ago. The facility includes separate sections for men and women and has seen a notable influx of visitors this summer from central and southern provinces, as well as locals from Nineveh.
Hamam Al-Alil is situated 25 kilometers from the outskirts of Mosul. The mineral springs have been a tourist attraction for over a century and were converted into a government project in the 1970s. Visitors come from across Iraq and abroad, drawn by the therapeutic benefits of the waters.
In addition to the springs, there are three types of mineral mud sold nearby: black, red, and yellow, each offering specific treatments for skin, hair, or other conditions. However, the site lacks small kiosks and rest stations offering food and refreshments, despite a small cafeteria within the bath.
Ahmad Aziz, manager of the men’s baths, told 964media, “The water emerges from springs along the banks of the Tigris River and is pumped into the baths. Initially, the temperature is 60 degrees Celsius, but it cools to between 45 and 50 degrees by the time it reaches the pools.”
The Hamam Al-Alil project reopened in June 2022 after restoration. Neglected post-2003, it now attracts tourists and those seeking treatment for skin conditions.
The bath has separate sections for men and women, both featuring a large central pool with a depth of 160 cm, surrounded by 24 individual pools for private use. Entry costs 5,000 dinars ($4) with flexible hours, operating from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
“The turnout is excellent, with visitors from all provinces, especially Baghdad and Babil, alongside locals from Nineveh. Most come to address skin and joint problems,” Aziz revealed.
Malaak Ahmad, supervisor of the women’s baths, noted that, “Photography is prohibited inside the women’s section, and no electronic devices, including phones and headphones, are allowed to protect privacy.”
“We offer services such as massages and first aid, but there is a need for kiosks that provide food and drinks. Our peak season is in the summer, and we are open every day of the week, with Friday being the busiest day,” she said.
Younes Al-Jubouri, a bath paramedic, explained that they have a medical and emergency unit to assist visitors. They often deal with fainting due to increased heart rate and decreased oxygen levels caused by the high temperature and gases from the water, providing oxygen and first aid.
“We also handle cases of fractures and deep cuts, providing immediate care or referring them to the hospital,” he added.
Ali Al-Jubouri, a visitor from Baghdad, shared, “I came from the capital to Mosul for treatment. I have joint pain, and I was advised to bathe in Hamam Al-Alil’s waters. This is my first visit, and I felt some relief after swimming.”